Posted on July 29, 2010
In light of several recent local fires, Senator Kemp Hannon is reminding everyone to review the best way to put out a grease fire.
"Many people assume, and our gut reaction may tell us, that any fire can be best put out with water," said Senator Kemp Hannon. "However, throwing water on a common grease fire with oil in a frying pan is one of the most dangerous things you can do," Hannon continued. Water, being heavier than oil, will sink below the oil and cause an explosion that propels the fire upwards.
So what should you do? If you can, cover the grease fire with a non-glass pan lid. One of the simplest and cheapest extinguishers of a grease fire is baking soda. Keep a box next to your stove to throw on stove top fires. Also have an approved portable fire extinguisher nearby. Be prepared to evacuate and call 911.
